Wells Fargo positive pay file format
Wells Fargo ARP Standard "*03" (fixed width)
Independent documentation. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Wells Fargo.
Skip the manual formatting: generate this file from your check register in your browser. Your check data never leaves your computer.
File layout
Fixed-width text file, .txt extension, with header record, with trailer/total record.
| Position | Field | Format |
|---|---|---|
| 1–10 | Check Serial Number | 10 chars · zero-filled, right-justified |
| 11–16 | Issue Date | 6 chars · MMDDYY |
| 17–31 | Account Number | 15 chars · zero-filled, right-justified |
| 32–34 | Transaction Code | 3 chars |
| 35–44 | Amount | 10 chars · implied decimal (no point) · zero-filled, right-justified |
| 45–84 | Payee / Additional Data | 40 chars |
| 85–85 | Unused | 1 char |
Void handling: issued checks marked "320", voided checks marked "430". Void records carry a zero amount.
Notes: Transaction codes: 320 = issue, 430 = void (zero amount, applied automatically). Cancels with amount use code 370; use the bank portal for those. 85-character detail records; payee-validation variant (165 chars) not yet supported.
Source: Reproduced from ERP vendor documentation (the bank does not publish this spec directly). Do a test upload before relying on it. Reference: Technical College System of Georgia's reproduction of Wells Fargo's April 2011 ARP spec, corroborated by two ERP vendors.
How to create a Wells Fargo positive pay file
Export your check register from QuickBooks, your ERP, or a spreadsheet, then use the free generator: upload the file, match your columns once, choose “Wells Fargo ARP Standard "*03" (fixed width)”, and download a file formatted exactly as above. Processing happens entirely in your browser, so account and check data never leaves your computer. Always verify your first file with a test upload in your bank portal.